The material is based on research and interviews with key individuals from authorities and other actors who played an important role during the COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2022. The idea is that the experiences can provide lessons for a possible future pandemic or crisis.
Workplaces Can Amplify the Spread of Infection
Research has shown that workplaces are not only vulnerable to the spread of infection. One of the report’s conclusions is that preparedness plans must include job-specific strategies for future societal crises that may affect working life. Strengthening infection control systems within the framework of systematic work environment management is also needed. This means investing in preventive infrastructure, clear routines, and common hygiene standards across all sectors.
– Workplaces can protect against and amplify the spread of infection, so communication, collaboration, and well-prepared strategies are crucial for the next crisis, says Robert Ljung, lead process analyst at the Swedish Agency for Work Expertise.
Fast and Clear Communication Is Important
Another factor that several countries found important during the pandemic was fast and clear communication in order to gain acceptance for protective measures. The findings show that trust is built through proactive dialogue, which can be the key to safer and more resilient work environments.
In times of crisis, it is also crucial that different areas of expertise collaborate—such as occupational health and safety, public health, behavioral science, and communication. In this way, well-coordinated measures can be ensured, according to the report. It also proposes measures such as developing guidelines for remote and hybrid work, as well as creating flexible, inclusive, and health-promoting working practices during similar disruptions.
The report can be downloaded here and is a product of the research network Perosh. It is presented during the 6th research conference in Manchester, September 9–11.